The Guggenheim Museum is a remarkable ensemble of curves and daring forms covered in gleaming titanium panels. It helped to transform Bilbao from a grimy industrial heartland into an exciting cultural destination. Embark on a self-guided tour of this contemporary art museum to view its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions.
Before starting your art exploration, walk around the iconic riverside structure to study its unusual shape and several permanent artworks. These include Puppy, a 41-feet (12-meter) sculpture of a west highland terrier dog made with thousands of living plants
Marvel at the interior which is equally spectacular including the cathedral-like atrium. It is bathed in natural light that pours through its large windows. Investigate three floors of galleries that are all connected to the central atrium via catwalks, glass elevators and staircases.
There are 20 galleries filled with temporary and permanent exhibits from the mid-20th century to the present day. Start on the first floor by walking through and around Richard Serra's The Matter of Time which consists of several large sculptures made of weathered steel. For the best view of the installation go up to the balcony on the second floor. Look at more pieces from the permanent collection on the third floor. Works include The Renowned Orders of the Night by Anselm Kiefer, a painting in which the artist is portrayed lying under a night sky filled with stars.
The museum is located in the center of the city and easily reached by public transportation. If coming by car, there is parking for a fee in nearby streets and in underground parking at Plaza Pio Baroja or Plaza Euskadi. There are no parking facilities for visitors at the museum.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is open every day except some Mondays, December 25 and January 1. Admission charges vary depending on the art programs and there are reductions for students and senior citizens. There is no fee for accompanied children under the age of 12. Save money with the Artean Pass, a joint admission ticket for the Guggenheim and the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum.
